US Treasury Praises Mexico’s Banking Sector for Combating Illicit Financing

Web Editor

September 18, 2025

a man walking past a building with a statue of a man on it's side and a fence around it, Evelyn Abel

Background on John Hurley and His Role

John Hurley, the Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, recently met with the Association of Banks of Mexico (ABM) to discuss strengthening efforts against drug cartels and disrupting the flow of fentanyl into the United States.

Who is John Hurley?

John Hurley serves as the Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, a key position responsible for combating terrorism financing and illicit activities. His role involves coordinating with international partners, including Mexico, to ensure global financial security.

Key Points from the Meeting

  • Mexico’s Banking Sector’s Crucial Role: Hurley emphasized that Mexico’s banking sector plays a vital role in defending against illicit financing.
  • Strengthening Joint Efforts: The meeting focused on enhancing collaborative efforts to combat drug cartels and disrupt the flow of fentanyl into the U.S.
  • Compliance Norms:
    • Hurley highlighted the importance of adhering to compliance norms as per President Donald Trump’s mandate.
    • Public advisories and alerts from the Treasury were identified as crucial tools to help banks improve their compliance.
  • Commitment to Eliminating Cartel Financing: The Treasury reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating cartel financing and praised recent compliance measures as evidence of the U.S.’s determination to ensure private sector adherence in dismantling cartel networks.
  • Strong U.S.-Mexico Alliance: Hurley expressed deep gratitude for the solid partnership between the U.S. and Mexico, acknowledging the critical roles played by both governments and industries in advancing shared security objectives.
  • Improving Cooperation: The discussion centered on enhancing collaboration to ensure greater compliance and more effective outcomes in the fight against cartel financing.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is John Hurley’s role? John Hurley serves as the Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, focusing on combating terrorism financing and illicit activities.
  • Why is Mexico’s banking sector important? The banking sector in Mexico plays a crucial role in defending against illicit financing, thanks to its robust collaboration with the U.S.
  • What were the main topics discussed in the meeting? The key topics included strengthening joint efforts against drug cartels, enhancing compliance norms, and improving cooperation to combat cartel financing.
  • What measures has the U.S. Treasury taken to ensure compliance? The Treasury has issued public advisories and alerts, emphasizing their importance as tools to help banks improve compliance with regulations.
  • Why is the U.S.-Mexico alliance significant? The strong partnership between the U.S. and Mexico is vital for advancing shared security objectives, with both governments and industries playing critical roles.